Day 6 Thursday 03-08-07
2:30 a.m. EST
Its another 9:30 a.m. morning for us here in Cyprus. This morning we're going to see some more sights up in the mountains. Our first stop was St. Hilarion Castle high on the peaks overlooking the city of Girne. We were told not to take pictures until we got up there, because we passed a military base halfway up and if the soldiers saw us with our cameras, they would aim their weapons at us and possibly fire and ask questions later. The photographer/journalist inside me wanted to risk it for the sake of a good story with a picture, but my conscience put extreme weight in my arm and I was unable to get out my camera. We arrived at the castle and were able to have an English-speaking guide give us a complete tour. The tour had amazing views and information, including that some people say Walt Disney was inspired by the castle and used it in Snow White. Many of us in the group were determined to climb the 300 and some stone stairs all the way up to the highest watch tower and to the highest peak, which rests high over the island at 732 meters, or about 2,200 feet. We made it with aching bodies and sore legs, and with our monthly workout checked off our list … for the next 3 months. Once we left the castle, our next stop was at another ancient ruin that used to be somewhat of a base for Crusaders in the 12th century. We only saw it from the outside and left to go towards the capital of Cyprus, Nicosia, and to Near East University. We ate lunch in their cafeteria, mixing in groups with some of the students as we have tried to do all week here. Three girls in our group and I met one man from Jordan who is studying Civil Engineering and he was incredibly nice the entire time. We spoke about our homes and school as well as family. He is one of 12 siblings, with 3 brothers and 8 sisters! I thought being one of five myself is big. He also brought up 9-11 and wanted us to sincerely know that his country wept with us on that day, and I could hear his heart almost beating for us on that issue there at that table. We were able to speak of the different stereotypes about Americans and Middle Easterners and how what we see on the news of both cultures doesn't speak for the entire region of how each of us act. It was a very wonderful talk with my new friend, and I look forward to speaking with all of my new friends soon from home.
6:00 a.m. EST
After the university we spent our afternoon in downtown Nicosia and were able to see the UN-controlled border, as well as play with some kids on the playground. It was a very surreal moment to see this country so divided, and yet so open and friendly. We're all very saddened that tomorrow will be our final day on this island. It has most definitely become a home away from home, if only for a little time. I will be posting more information and photos when I get back to the USA.
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